Believe it or not, people go hiking in hot weather all over the country during the summer days. Even in sweltering conditions, like the intense desert of Southeastern Arizona. Yes, it is very possible to have an enjoyable hike out in the igneous desert. However, there are several ways to approach the task without perishing. Provided below are suggestions that should carefully be thought out to hike smart and stay safe on the trails.
1. Hiking Attire
- Avoid clothes made of cotton (unless you don’t mind sweat sticking to you), or clothes that expose skin. Sweat-resistant material is highly recommended, as well as wearing long sleeves and pants to avoid significant sunburn. Should you head out with skin exposed, please apply sunscreen before heading out, SPF 15 or higher is recommended.
2. Location & Time
- You MUST make sure to avoid hiking in between 12-3 PM, as that is the hottest part of the day. Also, make sure your trail includes as mush shade as possible. The best time to hike is in the early hours of the morning, or when the sun sets. Yet this raises caution with visibility issues. From anecdotal evidence, hikers here in Arizona tend to agree that the best time to start your hike is early as possible. Try to hike near water as well, however, do not drink it if you cannot purify it yourself while you are out on the trail.
3. Hydration
4. BREAKS
- Please remember to take breaks while out on the trail, whether your an experienced hiker, or just beginning. Make sure to take these are in shady places to escape the scorching temp by 10 degrees or so. While your resting, be sure to drink plenty of water, and eat protein to keep your energy up. If you’re wearing short sleeves or pants, take breaks to examine your body for any possible cuts, burns, or any injury you may have incurred on your hike. Many hikers go out and underestimate the need for breaks and end up getting seriously hurt because of it.
Additionally, it is always good to have a handy first-aid kit while you are out to ensure you can prevent more serious injuries from happening. Here is a link below for our hiker kit we sell: https://www.cpr-savers.com/Hikers-First-Aid-Kit_p_5185.html Stay safe out there, and remember hikers, if you start to feel ANY dehydration signs: STOP. REST. DRINK.
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